Safe evacuation framework with intelligent dynamic exit sign system and demonstration in tunnel fire

Emergency exit sign systems guide occupants to safety, but they may fail in fires when smoke blocks routes. This study introduces an Intelligent Dynamic Exit Sign (IDES) system, integrating a fire-detection sensor network with dynamic sign patterns, which could enhance evacuation safety by always guiding occupants away from hazards. The system's operation framework and design rules ensure effective implementation. To address ethical concerns in complex scenarios, IDES includes a reversion mechanism that switches dynamic signs back to conventional static signs when necessary. The system's effectiveness is demonstrated through prototyping in a lab-scale tunnel model, assessing both the dynamic patterns and hardware reliability. Results show the potential of IDES to automatically optimize evacuation procedures and occupant safety during emergencies. Furthermore, the study delves into challenges associated with real-world implementation and offers insights for future applications of this innovative safety solution in more complex built environments.